The Power of Networks: Insights from Liza Garrido, Director of BNI Beyond

At our recent session, Liza Garrido, Director of BNI Beyond, shared the values and pulse that make BNI one of the world’s most powerful business networks.

One key takeaway stood out clearly:

“Networks beat networking events every time — because BNI is a network.”

BNI isn’t just about attending meetings; it’s about belonging to a trusted ecosystem of professionals who actively help each other grow. As Liza reminded us, when you join BNI, you gain access to a network of people willing to help you — without expecting anything in return.

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💎 The Core Values That Drive BNI

At the heart of every BNI chapter are values that foster collaboration, trust, and long-term success:

• Givers Gain — The more you give, the more you receive.

• Building Relationships — Success is built on trust and connection.

• Lifelong Learning — Stay curious and adaptable, especially in an age shaped by AI and change.

• Traditions + Innovation — Honour what works, but be ready to pivot.

• Positive Attitude — Energy attracts opportunity.

• Accountability — Follow through and keep those who refer you informed.

• Recognition — Celebrate others’ achievements — success shared is success multiplied.

As Michael noted during the session, accountability is key:

“When someone gives you a referral, keep them updated — they’ve trusted you with their reputation.”

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📚 Why BNI Works

BNI isn’t just a group — it’s your marketing team.

Most of us can’t afford to hire a full-scale marketing department, but by joining BNI, you gain:

• Access to 33 members (and their networks) advocating for you.

• Connection to 675 chapters across Australia and thousands worldwide.

• An exclusive seat in your profession — no direct competitors in your chapter.

• A stream of quality business referrals from people who know, like, and trust you.

It’s not about chasing every customer — it’s about finding the right customer.

BNI members often generate over 50% of their business through the network, a testament to the power of collaboration and trust.

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🤝 Beyond Business: A Community of Support

Running a business can be lonely.

BNI provides access to experts, mentors, and peers who understand your challenges — a space where you can share your wins, lessons, and struggles.

When you show up for your chapter, you’re not just building business — you’re building belonging.

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🔗 The BNI Ethos and Referron: A Shared DNA of Connection

The principles that make BNI thrive are the same values that power Referron — a platform built to help people connect, collaborate, and contribute with ease.

Where BNI provides the human structure of trust, Referron provides the technology to extend it.

Referron turns every conversation, introduction, and connection into an opportunity — allowing you to:

• Share your digital business card instantly.

• Refer trusted people within your network in seconds.

• Track and follow up effortlessly.

Both BNI and Referron embody the philosophy of “Givers Gain.”

They make generosity practical — transforming goodwill into measurable growth.

Together, they amplify the reach and impact of every relationship —

combining BNI’s community with Referron’s connectivity to build a world where business grows through trust, not transactions.

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Networks create growth.

BNI creates community.

Referron makes it effortless.